Natasha Kline to Develop Latest Animated Star Wars Projects for Disney+

After a period of relative quiet on the animated front for the Star Wars franchise, Lucasfilm Animation has reportedly tapped Natasha Kline, known for her work on Disney’s Primos, to develop multiple new animated Star Wars projects. The announcement signals a potential expansion of animated content on Disney+, building on the success of previous series like The Clone Wars and Star Wars: Visions.

Kline’s Expanded Role at Disney and Lucasfilm

According to Disney TV Animation News, Kline has signed a deal with Lucasfilm Animation to spearhead the creation of original animated Star Wars content. Disney TV Animation News as well reports that Kline’s developmental deal with Disney Television Animation has been extended, encompassing the oversight and development of animated shows, movies, and specials for Disney+.

Potential for New Series Targeting Younger Audiences

In addition to these projects, a new Star Wars series aimed at younger children is reportedly in development for the Disney Channel. This series, reminiscent of Young Jedi Adventures, is expected to be a collaborative effort between Disney Television Animation and Lucasfilm Animation, with Kline likely taking a supervisory role. Disney TV Animation News

Recent and Upcoming Animated Projects

This news arrives after a lull in announcements regarding Star Wars animation. Recent updates included the development of Maul: Shadow Lord and the Star Wars: Visions spin-off, Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi, slated for release in 2026. Star Wars: The Clone Wars, which aired from 2008 to 2013 and continued on Disney+ in 2020, remains a fan favorite.

The tradition of releasing Tales of the… installments on May 4th may continue this year, following the releases of Tales of the Empire in 2024 and Tales of the Underworld in 2025.

What Direction Will Star Wars Animation Take?

The Star Wars galaxy offers a vast canvas for storytelling, spanning thousands of years. While much of the animated content has focused on the Skywalker Saga (roughly 32 BBY to 35 ABY), there’s growing interest in exploring other eras. The High Republic, a period established through novels and comics, presents a compelling opportunity for an animated series, potentially broadening its audience. Expanding beyond known galaxies, as hinted at in Ahsoka, could also open up new narrative possibilities, free from existing canon constraints.

Dave Filoni, a key figure in Star Wars animation, remains a central creative force as Lucasfilm co-president. Kline’s role may focus on the day-to-day management of production, allowing Filoni to concentrate on broader creative oversight.

Key Takeaways

• Natasha Kline has signed a deal with Lucasfilm Animation to develop new animated Star Wars projects.
• A new Star Wars series aimed at younger audiences is in development for Disney Channel.
• Upcoming animated projects include Maul: Shadow Lord and Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi.
• There is potential for future animated series set in unexplored eras of the Star Wars universe, such as the High Republic.